About this job
About the Position
The Senior Medical-Legal Death Investigator plays a critical role at the intersection of public health and public safety, conducting complex investigations into unattended, unexplained, suspicious, and other deaths requiring investigation throughout Lane County. This senior-level position requires exceptional investigative skills, sound judgment, and the ability to navigate sensitive situations with professionalism and compassion.
In this role, you will conduct thorough death investigations, including scene examinations, witness interviews, medical history reviews, evidence gathering, and detailed documentation to support the determination of cause and manner of death. You will work closely with law enforcement, medical professionals, forensic partners, and other agencies to ensure investigations are accurate, thorough, and consistent with applicable laws and established standards.
Beyond individual investigations, this position provides advanced technical expertise and contributes to improving investigative practices across the program. Responsibilities include evaluating complex cases, identifying trends, reviewing policies and procedures, and recommending operational improvements to strengthen consistency, efficiency, and compliance.
We are looking for an experienced investigator who brings strong analytical and organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to make informed decisions in challenging circumstances. Equally important is the ability to communicate with empathy, support grieving families, and build effective working relationships with community partners.
About the Department & Division
The Lane County District Attorney's Office serves our community by promoting public safety, pursuing justice, supporting victims and families, and ensuring the fair and consistent application of the law. The office includes Criminal Prosecution, Juvenile, Family Law (Child Support Enforcement), Victim Services, and Death Investigations.
The Death Investigations program plays a vital role in determining the cause and manner of traumatic, unattended, and other deaths requiring investigation. Working collaboratively with law enforcement, medical professionals, and community partners, the team conducts thorough, objective investigations while treating individuals and grieving families with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Our work is guided by a commitment to integrity, accountability, professionalism, and service to the people of Lane County.
Schedule: Shift work will vary - day, swing, nights, weekends, holiday and on-call.
*This is an AFSCME represented position*
Training and Experience (positions in this class typically require):
Seven years of education and/or experience in medical investigation, similar investigations, biology, chemistry, pharmacology, or a related field, including three years of experience conducting medical legal death investigations.
An equivalent combination sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the position.
Preferred Requirements:ABMDI certified (American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators).
Notes:This position is subject to a full criminal offender record check.
Must have valid Oregon driver license by time of appointment.
Must be able to respond to scene of investigation within one hour.
Studies have shown that women and BIPOC individuals are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. The county will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.
Medical Legal Death Investigator - Senior Classification Details
Selection Process
Equal Employment Opportunity
Lane County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.
Strategic Plan
In alignment with Lane County's Strategic Plan, incumbent(s) will be expected to demonstrate the following core behaviors: Passion to Serve, Driven to Connect, and Focused on Solutions.
The 2025 - 2027 Strategic Plan focuses on the areas that Lane County will pursue as a way to deliver on our vision for the residents of Lane County. To meet these challenges, we know that the basis of our efforts lies in leveraging our people and partnerships to achieve our Strategic Priorities. We also recognize that the quality and commitment of our staff is essential to a shared future where Lane County is the best place in which to live, work, and play.